Preview: Saint Peter’s Looks to Rebound Against Manhattan in MAAC Clash NEW YORK (Interstat) — The Saint Peter’s Peacocks will look to bounce back from a narrow road loss when they visit the Manhattan Jaspers in a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference men’s basketball game Thursday night at Draddy Gymnasium. Saint Peter’s (12-8, 7-4 MAAC) enters having dropped two of its last three, including a 78-81 defeat at Rider on Sunday. The Peacocks have been led by the consistent play of guard Brent Bland, who is averaging 16.4 points over his last seven games. He scored 20 points in the loss to Rider. Manhattan (9-15, 5-7) seeks to regain momentum after a 65-72 loss at Mount Saint Mary’s on Sunday. The Jaspers have struggled defensively, allowing 90 or more points in three of their last six contests. Forward Anthony Isaac provides a presence inside, coming off a 10-point, 9-rebound performance. The matchup features contrasting trajectories. Saint Peter’s sits above .500 in conference play, while Manhattan has lost seven of its last ten games overall. The Peacocks won the first meeting this season, 69-58, on Jan. 17 in Jersey City. For Saint Peter’s, containing Manhattan’s offense, which exploded for 95 points in a win over Rider on Jan. 30, will be key. The Peacocks will rely on Bland and backcourt mate Bryce Eaton, who had 15 points and four assists against Rider. Manhattan must find an answer for Saint Peter’s defensive pressure and improve its ball security to protect its home court. Isaac and guard Jaden Winston, who had 13 points and four assists last time out, are central to those efforts. Thursday’s result will impact the MAAC standings as the regular season enters its final month. Saint Peter’s aims to solidify its position near the top, while Manhattan looks to climb out of the lower tier. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST. The teams will meet again in Jersey City on Feb. 27.